The National Security and Defence Review (NSDR) Taskforce in Fiji is urging the Prime Minister to seek the formal endorsement of the Great Council of Chiefs regarding the use of the term “Fijian” as the official nationality for all citizens of Fiji. During the report’s launch yesterday, Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua expressed that this recommendation is a positive step, and he plans to move forward with it.
The report notes that some stakeholders believe using “Fijian” as a national identifier unifies the population, thereby enhancing social cohesion. The taskforce suggests referring this matter to the Great Council of Chiefs, who are seen as guardians of indigenous Fijian identity, which is viewed as a move towards reconciliation.
This recommendation allows the Great Council of Chiefs to deliberate on the issue and possibly follow in the footsteps of their ancestors who signed the Deed of Cession on October 10, 1874, thereby creating a significant legacy and demonstrating a commitment to the nation’s welfare. The report emphasizes that such a gesture of reconciliation would greatly enhance social cohesion within the country.